Best Regional Architecture Books of 2025

The second edition of A Field Guide to American Houses is a comprehensive and essential guide to domestic architecture, featuring expanded and new categories of house styles with photos and descriptions of each. The book includes an appendix on "Approaches to Construction in the 20th and 21st Centuries," an expanded bibliography, and 600 new photographs and line drawings. The book is an excellent resource for laypersons and professionals interested in the history and preservation of American homes. Its detailed and illustrated storytelling makes it an engaging read, making it a must-have for anyone interested in residential architecture.

The Architecture of Sir Edwin Lutyens: Country-Houses (Volume 1) is a must-have book for anyone interested in domestic architecture. The book contains hundreds of detailed plans and photographs, showcasing the finest examples of Lutyen's domestic buildings. The first volume focuses on his own plans, elevations, and details, providing a glimpse into the mind of this famous architect. The book is not only a beautiful coffee table book but also a practical guide for those looking for working drawings. Overall, this book is an essential addition to any architecture lover's collection.

The book "Newport Cottages 1835-1890: The Summer Villas Before the Vanderbilt Era" by Michael C. Kathrens offers a fascinating insight into the luxury and grandeur of Newport's summer homes before the "Gilded Age" mansions. The book showcases the exceptional houses built by America's wealthiest and most prominent families, with ownership histories of each of the thirty-six houses profiled. The book also features rare late-nineteenth- and early-twentieth-century interior images, reflecting a shift in fashion. Overall, this book is an excellent resource for anyone interested in the architectural history of Newport's early resort homes."

India Hicks: Island Style is a beautifully illustrated guide to achieving the author's unique decorating style. With never-before-seen imagery and behind-the-scenes stories, India Hicks invites readers into her world of carefree Caribbean culture mixed with British colonial formality. The book covers everything from tablescaping to creating spaces of sanctuary. The personal perspective and passion for design shared by the author make this book a standout in the world of interior design. With its witty tone and stunning photography, Island Style is a must-read for anyone looking to capture a bit of paradise in their home.

The book "How White Folks Got So Rich: The Untold Story of American White Supremacy" by Reclamation Project is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the foundation of white wealth in America. The book explores the government policies, corporate schemes, and racist actions that have contributed to the creation of white wealth in America. The book is fully illustrated and retails for $10. This book is a valuable addition to the regional architecture books category and is an eye-opening read that challenges the myth of white success being solely based on hard work.

Key West Cottages and Gardens is a book that showcases the unique architectural and design style of Key West, one of the most famous tropical islands in the world. The book features beautiful photos of tropical homes, along with tips for living on the island from Leslie Linsley and residents. With interviews and photos that showcase the different styles of cottages, this book is perfect for anyone who loves the feeling and visuals of the Key West lifestyle. Overall, this book is a great addition to any home decorating book collection, especially for those looking to incorporate tropical elements into their home design.

In "Historic Charleston and the Lowcountry," photographers Steve Gross and Susan Daley provide a stunning visual tour of the region's most exquisite historic homes, gardens, and churches. From colonial-era French Quarter homes to antebellum plantation houses, the book showcases the definitive architecture and landscape of the area. With over 22 historic homes, plantations, and gardens, the authors provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of Charleston's past. Additionally, the book instructs readers on the histories of piazzas, wrought-iron work, hidden gardens, and churches. Overall, "Historic Charleston and the Lowcountry" is a must-have for visitors, architects, preservationists, or armchair travelers who want to experience the region's beauty and history.

Julia Morgan: An Intimate Biography of the Trailblazing Architect is a captivating read that introduces Julia Morgan as a pioneering architect and a captivating individual. This biography draws on interviews, letters, and Morgan's diaries, including never-before-seen reflections on faith, art, and her life experiences. Victoria Kastner weaves a captivating tale about courage, vision, and resilience, exploring both Morgan's work and her life. The book features over 150 photographs, printed throughout the text, including both fascinating archival images and beautiful, full-color contemporary shots of Morgan's buildings. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in architecture or women's history.

The book "Living in Mexico" by Barbara and René Stoeltie is a stunning photographic journey that showcases the unique design aesthetic of Mexico's most remarkable abodes. The contrast of styles within the pages of this book is a testament to the country's vibrantly diverse palette of textures and hues. From the home of Constructivist architect Luis Barragán to a traditional Mayan thatched-roof dwelling, the book is filled with luscious pictures bursting with beautiful colors and exotic features. This book is a must-have for anyone seeking inspiration for authentic Mexican style in their home.

Surf Shacks Volume 2 is a captivating book that explores the homes of surfers worldwide. From improvised cabins to luxurious apartments, this book showcases 35-50 surf shacks, giving readers an intimate view into the homes and lives of surfers. The engaging interviews and practical advice on creating a surf shack of one's own make this book even more appealing. The author, Matt Titone, has done a fantastic job of presenting a diverse range of surf shacks and their unique styles. Overall, Surf Shacks Volume 2 is a must-read for anyone who loves surfing and design.